This bill establishes the Office of the Nonprofit Ombudsperson within the Department of the Treasury, aimed at providing support and advocacy for nonprofit organizations interacting with State agencies. The Governor will appoint a qualified individual to serve as the Nonprofit Ombudsperson, who will operate independently from the Department of the Treasury and other cabinet-level departments. The ombudsperson's responsibilities include monitoring compliance with the nonprofit information center portal, consulting with nonprofit organizations, providing technical assistance, investigating complaints, and reporting concerns to agency heads. Additionally, the bill amends existing law to enhance the nonprofit information center portal by including a link to the ombudsperson's office and requires the ombudsperson to submit an annual report on compliance issues to the Governor and Legislature.

To support the establishment and operation of the Office of the Nonprofit Ombudsperson, the bill appropriates $329,000 from the General Fund. The office is designed to facilitate better communication and resources for nonprofit organizations, ensuring they have access to necessary information and assistance in navigating State regulations. The bill emphasizes the importance of the ombudsperson's role in fostering a collaborative relationship between nonprofit organizations and State agencies, ultimately enhancing the operational capacity of nonprofits in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:16A-110